March 26, 2024 — We did it, Red Foxes! Thanks to the support of our entire Marist Community, our first-ever Day of Giving was a huge success.

Themed "Red Foxes Rise Together," the level of participation and donations shattered expectations, with nearly 2,900 donors raising over $560,000. These contributions will enhance the living and learning experiences of our students and the future of the College for years to come.

“This outpouring of support and sheer love for Marist and our students speaks volumes about just how special a place this is,” said President Kevin Weinman, “The resounding success of this inaugural Day of Giving is proof positive that our Red Fox community is ready and eager to take Marist to new heights and new places. Onward and upward – we’re a College on the rise!”

The initial goal of 1,000 donors was surpassed before 10 a.m. on the Day of Giving as Marist’s momentum was on full display. The overwhelming success of the 24-hour fundraiser can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the many alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the College who were eager and enthusiastic to show their generosity and love for Marist.

A full day of on-campus celebrations produced more than 800 thank-you postcards penned for donors and many contributors took advantage of the opportunity to enjoy a free coffee — or an ice cream 'scoop on philanthropy' in the dining hall (some served by President Weinman himself!).

The spirited efforts of many athletic coaches raised the bar on the day’s energy and action, as they rallied their parent and alumni communities and secured tremendous support for student-athletes.

For Sam Moyer ’10, making a gift for the Women’s Rowing team was a personal one. “I loved my Marist experience,” she said. “And I hope this donation can help a student enjoy it as much as I did!”

Moyer was one of the College’s numerous alumni who celebrated online through their social networks, and at in-person at events along the East Coast where their collective enthusiasm helped to bring in more than 43% of the day’s total funds.

Parents also played a crucial role in the Day of Giving success, with the College’s Parents Council issuing a $30,000 challenge that was unlocked after victoriously reaching 300+ parent donors.

“As proud parents of a Red Fox, we wanted to demonstrate our commitment to nurturing bright futures for all Marist students by contributing during Marist’s Inaugural Day of Giving,” said Shirley Bergin, member of the Parents Council. “It was truly inspiring to witness Marist's core values of excellence in education, a sense of community, and a commitment to service in action, and we are honored to be part of the Marist Family.”

In addition to exceeding donor goals and expectations, the Day of Giving reached more than 1.5 million people on social media, thanks to supporters sharing their Marist stories and memories using the hashtags #RedFoxesRiseTogether and #MaristDayOfGiving

The success of the College’s Day of Giving is a testament to the unwavering spirit and generosity of Red Foxes everywhere – who not only surpassed the College’s goals, but also redefined what it means to come together as a community.

Thank you, Marist, for making the first-ever Day of Giving an unforgettable celebration of giving back and rising together! Visit marist.edu/dayofgiving to see how it all shook out.